Honestly, this sounds like the exact moment a lot of people panic before a WHV. You’re not weird for feeling this way.
$16 an hour in Canada for a seasonal hotel job is pretty standard, but yeah, it doesn’t feel great when you compare it to UK pay and then add flights, insurance, and startup costs on top. Money being tight at the start is basically guaranteed, especially with staff accom.
What stands out to me is that you’re already unsure before booking flights. That usually means something. A four week “trial” sounds nice in theory, but in reality you’ll spend a lot of money just to get there, and four weeks isn’t really enough time to settle, earn much, or know if it’s right.
A lot of people I met who had the best WHV experiences either:
felt genuinely ready and committed when they went, or
waited a few months, saved more, and left with way less stress
Postponing isn’t failing. Neither is deciding it’s not the right season or job. Canada will still be there in summer, and you might land something that pays better once hiring ramps up.
If you were buzzing and just scared, I’d say go. But if you’re excited and hesitant in a heavy way, it might be worth listening to that and giving yourself more time.
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